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USA Fencing Launches International Regional Circuit Pilot Program

(Colorado Springs, Colo.) – During the 2018-19 season, USA Fencing will launch the International Regional Circuit for junior, cadet and youth fencers as a pilot program.

During its trial season, the IRC will give fencers the opportunity to qualify for USA Fencing national tournaments through two events in Asia in 2019.

The IRC pilot program was created following the initiative of a USA Fencing working group that was established to examine competition opportunities for young fencers living abroad who would like to qualify to compete in tournaments held in the United States. Proceeds from the IRC registration fees will benefit programs dedicated to expanding collegiate programs throughout the United States.

The first-ever IRC tournament will be held in Hong Kong from Dec. 30, 2018 – Jan. 1, 2019 and will include events in the junior, cadet, Y10, Y12 and Y14 age groups in all three weapons. An additional IRC tournament will be held in March / April at a location that will be announced in the coming weeks.

The IRC will be open to fencers from all nations who will be able to qualify for the 2019 March North American Cup in the Y10, Y12 and Y14 events and the 2019 July Challenge for junior and cadet competitors.

Youth fencers in the 10, 12 and 14 categories who compete in the IRC will gain entry into the March NAC for the weapon, gender and age category in which they competed at the IRC.

For junior and cadet fencers, the International Regional Circuit Points Standings will be launched this season with the top 32 on the IRC Points for each weapon and gender qualifying for the July Challenge.

Online registration for the first IRC tournament will launch in the coming weeks.